Ryan Moore: The Path To Success

Introduction

It was all but confirmed coming into the game. Northampton Town would be joining Bury and Milton Keynes Dons in being relegated to League Two if they failed to record a victory of nine goals or more. It was a task that was near on impossible and as the final whistle sounded at the end of the game, so it would prove. Northampton were relegated alongside Oldham Athletic after a 2-2 draw with the Latics on the final day of the season.

It was a bitter blow for the Cobblers, to be returning to Sky Bet League Two after their title winning season in 2016, however, it was a more than a deserved relegation. Issues on and off the pitch proved too much. Chinese firm 5USport, which bought a 60% share in June, was forced to sell back its stake due to "investment restrictions." While the board has moved to reassure fans that the club is financially secure, the team's performances were anything but reassuring.

The season began with Justin Edinburgh at the helm. He had arrived in January the previous season and steadied the ship, having had previous Football League experience with Newport County and Gillingham. However, he was one of the first casualties of the season and was sacked on 31st August after a poor run, including four straight defeats to begin the season.

And so, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink arrived on a three-year-deal with the club rooted to the foot of the table. The once Chelsea forward had impressed at Burton Albion, but lost his job at Queens Park Rangers in November 2016 and had been unemployed since. A string of good results followed his arrival, with the club rising to as high as 18th in mid January, but he was ultimately dismissed as results dwindled with the club's league position.

The Cobblers went on a winless nine game spell, which saw them slip back into the relegation zone and fall into 22nd position by early April.

Fans had already accepted the fate of the club by this point. Northampton looked doomed with a few weeks of the season to go. It seemed like it was fate. From the very start of pre-season, with the issues in ownership, it was like this season was always going to be an uphill battle. Dean Austin came in as caretaker boss to seal the club's fate. It was a return to League Two for the Cobblers.

WE WANT MOORE!

The Beginning

Every kid has dreams. Whether they're realistic or not is another story. However, I believe, that everyone can chase those dreams if they believe in themselves enough, find the limits and push beyond them. I've just realised how Disney-like that sounds... but it's something I do, honestly, strongly believe in as an individual.

Why? Well, because I can speak from experience. It's normal for most young boys to have dreams of becoming a professional football player. Pulling on that jersey of your favourite club, for England... Lifting the Premier League title, the FA Cup... the World Cup. I had that dream, until I realised that I had two left feet and there was more chance of 90-year-old Doris next door getting signed by Newcastle then me.

So, I looked elsewhere into football as I grew older. I was slightly more than a kid when I realised my next dream. That awkward age, the teenage years. I wanted to become a football manager and follow in the footsteps of the greats like Sir Alex Ferguson and Brian Clough. Two names I would become synonyms with, one through my own eyes, as I grew up watching SAF's incredible work at Manchester United and one due to the many stories my Dad would tell me about his successes.

It's important to have figures, role models. Having these people can allow you to strive towards a target and push yourself. And so, that's what these two men became to me. I, too, wanted to win titles and manage at the highest of levels, at the elite of the beautiful game. Nothing was going to stop me from achieving my goals, I would tell myself.

My family was a small, but close one. I was heavily dependent on my parents and my grandparents - we all looked out for one another. But, due to some issues within the family, from those outside this small bubble that I like to call 'family,' we decided to up sticks and move away from Newcastle; where we were all born and raised. My dad found some top work in Northampton and so, that's where we'd move - all five of us.

Throughout my whole school life, I would remain adamant on my future career. When I left, I would gain experience in coaching some of the local kids in the area for one of the local Sunday League teams. From there, I wanted to continue to grow and expand my resume, building on my C.V.

As it grew, my confidence and knowledge of football did too. I came to a point where I knew I was ready to embrace a huge step up. And so, I did. I applied for the position as manager with Banbury United. However, I was turned down and another applicant was handed their starting opportunity as a manager.

I cannot lie, I was disheartened by the response and beat myself up about it for a while. I was desperate for a big break and I felt that the Banbury job was the opportunity for me to do that. Unfortunately, it wasn't to be. I refocused myself and got back to the task at hand. I had to be mentally strong if I wanted to ever succeed, and that I was going to be.

Months went by after my unsuccessful application with Banbury. As they did, I continued to coach the local lads that I had built a good relationship with. The parents admired me, as I wanted to build a bond with the kids - so that they'd enjoy football as much as I did, and still do. I still kept one eye on available jobs within the area, in hope that, maybe, I could land one and begin my career.

I applied for numerous jobs and, frustratingly, was turned down by them all. Beside one...that was my big break...

Replies

Jack: I'll do my best! You have my word. 8/10 for the pun.

Justice: I really should have thought of a name which you couldn't do this with. F*ck you both.

Annoying pair of idols to have coming from a Leeds fan, but I'm excited to see if Ryan's as outspoken and controversial as Cloughy as well as successful as Fergie (a very difficult precedent to follow). I am wondering who did get back to you with the offer, though, especially considering the rejection from Banbury.

P.S. Do you teach young kids hockey as well as football? Asking for a friend.

An Opportunity

I was 22 years of age and desperate for an opportunity. I had already been struck back with numerous unsuccessful applications and whilst I told myself that it was "part of the process," it was still tough to take. I just needed to be given a chance and I wouldn't look back...

Enter Kevin Wilkin and Brackley Town. Kevin had been with the club as first-team manager for just over a year, having been appointed in October 2015. He was a man of real pedigree in Non-League, having managed Nuneaton Town and Wrexham prior to his latest job.

He had managed Nuneaton between 2006-2014, gaining promotion to the National League, which led him to Wales. Again, he enjoyed success as he took the club to a memorable FA Cup 3rd round clash with Stoke and an FA Trophy final, however lost out to North Ferriby United and was sacked 24 hours later.

I had applied to become his assistant at the club, as he was looking to reshuffle his staff around prior to the 2016/17 season. He was a well spoken man and saw my youth as a chance to bring some fresh energy into the National North outfit. Whilst he did have some reservations due to my inexperience, he agreed that I was the right candidate.

Looking back now, it was the right decision for us both. The club have enjoyed a meteoric rise in the last few years, but since Kevin and I have joined forces, it has been something else. We managed to finish in a respectable seventh place in our first season together and challenged ourselves to improve on that and push for the playoffs the next season.

The playoff format was due to change for the 2017/18 season, allowing the teams sat in 6th and 7th to also gain a playoff place at the end of the campaign. However, we aimed to finish above those places and try to take the club to its highest ever level of football - leading them into the Vanarama National League. Although, it would be difficult with sides such as Salford City, Harrogate Town, York City and Kidderminster Harriers all vying for that same opportunity.

Myself and Kevin have become very close as a result of our time together. He is someone I admire greatly and his track record at clubs, despite his sacking at Wrexham, proves that he is a fantastic manager. I have learnt a lot from him and he, surprisingly, feels the same way with me. I think we have proven to be beneficial to each other and our relationship is very strong.

Last season was an exceptional season for both me, Kevin and the football club. We managed to achieve our aims of obtaining a playoff position and also booked our place at Wembley in the FA Trophy final. Kevin was desperate for retribution having lost out to North Ferriby last time whilst at Wrexham and I was desperate to play a role in winning a piece of silverware for the first time.

On a day nobody will ever forget, we defeated National League opponents Bromley on penalties to lift the trophy. It was fantastic to be a part of the success and it will forever live in my memory. "This is only the beginning for you, Ryan," Kevin told me.

However, the excitement did not last there. We had a playoff final to prepare for, as we took on Harrogate Town just a week later. It was important we put our cup success behind us to enable us to win promotion, else we would be embarrassed. That proved to be the case, as Harrogate raced out victorious in a 3-0 win.

Dejected. Disappointed. It was a mass scene of hurt as we came back into the changing room. You could hear the Harrogate players and staff celebrating next door, which certainly made everyone feel worse. "I believe in you all despite this loss," said Kevin. "That will be us next season if we continue to work hard. Pick yourselves up and come back even stronger," he challenged.

And so, myself and Kevin are preparing for another season in the Vanarama National North. However, the expectations are just as high and we are desperate to ensure we take this magnificent football club into the fifth tier.

But, all this aside, it truly is a humbling moment to be working in the position I am and something I am immensely thankful for. Yet, I feel like there is still much more to come for me yet.Who knows...

Replies

Griffin: Thank you mate. I hope so too!

Jack: They're both legends though, you have to admit that. We'll find out together when we learn a bit more about Ryan's personality I guess!

And no, he does not teach children to play hockey. Although, I could put you in touch with somebody if your "friend" would like me to?

The Coffee Shop

Preparations were ongoing at the club ahead of the new season. Putting the disappointment of losing in the playoff final last season, we were confident in our abilities to ensure we didn't fall at the last hurdle again and go on to achieve our aims of sending Brackley Town into the Vanarama National League.

Many of the players remained at the club from last season, while a few additions had already been made a week prior to the squad returning to begin pre-season on 1st July. There was no need for immediate action after last season, plenty of the squad had the ability - it was simply a case of strengthening in-between the cracks.

Myself and Kevin were constantly in close contact to arrange deals, trials and numerous other things. I received a text, however, from Kevin asking me to meet him at a place nearby. So, I got ready and agreed to meeting him at a coffee shop about ten minutes from my families house. I was trying to get something sorted on that front, but you know what prices are like down south... highly extortionate.

Upon arrival to said coffee shop, I saw Kevin sat in the corner of the room and went over, sitting on the seat opposite him. "Alright mate," he said, taking a sip from his mug. "I needed to discuss an urgent matter with you. Northampton have contacted me."

"In regards to the vacant managerial position?" I quizzed. "You'd be perfect for that role and it'd be a fantastic opportunity for you."

"Yes, it was for the Northampton job. But, they want to talk to you. They contacted me to give me a bit of notice - expect the phone to ring soon. This is your opportunity to start your managerial career, Ryan. Take it."

I was in disbelief at his claims. A large part of me thought it was all a joke, but I realised that Kevin wasn't one to make such jokes. He was being serious about the matter.

"I don't know what to say," I replied. "This is something I've wanted for a long time and to even have Northampton interested in me is... wow." I paused for a moment. "But... why me and not you?" I posed to him.

"Because they know the hard work you've put into this football club. You have youth on your side and a tremendous knowledge of football. You'd be blind to not see that. Football League clubs know that there is a huge pool of talented managers coming through the ranks these days, you're one of them. In truth, I think you have the tools to make it big, Ryan."

I was used to praise from Kevin. He was a well-mannered man who knew how to value his players and staff. However, he demanded respect and if you shown that respect to him, you would be repaid.

"Anyway, let me know when they've rang you up."

"Yeah, I will do - obviously Kev." I replied, laughing. "Thank you for this."

"You have nothing to thank me for, Ryan, nothing at all. This is all your hard work. Northampton will appoint you, trust me."

"I don't know-"

"No, they will. I can guarantee it." Kevin told me assertively. With that, he smiled and left. Then the phone rang... Northampton Town Football Club.

Replies

Jack: Hahaha. Yeah, Brackley are a good side and it's only a matter of time before they are promoted to the National League.

The Phone Call

I hated phone calls with a passion. The sense of speaking to random people without seeing their faces was slightly unsettling, personally. I have always tried to avoid making conversations on the phone for that reason - finding alternative means to get things done, like phoning for taxis and making appointments. Sadly, this couldn't be done for speaking to the chairman of Northampton Town Football Club.

I was determined to keep calm and collected as he spoke to me. So when the phone rang, I took a moment to collect myself and take a breath. I answered in a confident manner and let him lay out the details. "I'm sure you'll be aware of the current situation at the football club." He said, assertively. "Last season did not go to plan and we're left with a vacant managerial position." He paused for a moment. "We want you to fill it."

Despite what Kevin had told me prior to the call, I was still taken aback by his comments. I had no experience in such a role and the only experience in football I had was with a side in the seventh tier of English football. Why were they so keen in me?

"Our relationship with your employers, Brackley, has been strong for a number of years now. As a local side to us, it's in both of our interests to work together. This has seen us loan players to you, to allow them to develop, for example." He continued before saying, "We saw the success of the club last campaign and Kevin sung your praises highly."

I interrupted. "So, surely Kevin would be your main target? He was the one that led the success, I was merely an aid in that."

"Perhaps so," he replied. "But your skills are clear to see and Kevin was adamant that you were the man we should be looking at - not him. You have age on your side and have a clear understanding of the modern game. We need somebody with such youth to help modernise the football club, once again."

Northampton were very much in need of modernising if they wanted to step back up to League One. However, was I the person to do that? I was slightly unsure. It was a massive opportunity for me and I've always told myself that I would be ready for such a chance to arise, but I never imagined it would be in a position like this.

"I'm very thankful for your comments, Mr Thomas." I said. "This is an opportunity I could never have dreamed of and to manage such a fantastic football club would be an honour." I tried not to sound too bowled over when I expressed this, but the whole thing was slightly overwhelming and I would have to have no emotions to be able to hide my excitement.

"Excellent! I would love to continue our discussions face-to-face. Could we do so tomorrow at the club's training ground?" He quizzed.

"Err, of course."

"Perfect. Ryan, I very much look forward to discussing the future of the football club with you tomorrow. I strongly believe that this is the right move for us, if you do decide to sign on the dotted line. See you tomorrow at 2pm?"

"You will, Mr Thomas. Thank you."

The phone call ended. I leaned back into my seat, smiled and took a sip from my Espresso.This truly was happening...

Cobblers appoint Brackley assistant Ryan Moore

Northampton Town have appointed Brackley Town assistant manager Ryan Moore as first-team manager on a one-year-deal.

The decision will no doubt surprise many, with the 24-year-old having no experience outside of his time as assistant to Kevin Wilkin with the Vanarama National North side.

Moore spent two years with the Saints, in which he helped oversee the club to a playoff final and a victory at Wembley over Vanarama National League opponents Bromley, in a dramatic penalty shootout in the FA Trophy last season.

Northampton have been without a permanent manager since Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was sacked in April. Chairman Kelvin Thomas has thanked the fans for their "patience" in what he described as a "difficult time for the club."

"Last season was a real disappointment for everybody associated with the football club. A number of reasons contributed to our relegation and we are keen to put things right in the upcoming campaign."

"I had many sleepless nights last season. I was the one who made the decisions at the club and I made the wrong choices. Therefore, the blame has to go down with myself. I want to rectify those mistakes and rebuild the football club again."

Thomas spoke openly on how he received help from a number of contacts regarding the appointment. "As a result of previous errors, I sought for help in making this decision and feel that this is the right one. We have a young manager who has demonstrated a knowledge of the game far beyond his years." He said.

"I strongly urge the supporters to stick with us during the upcoming season. The support shown throughout the season was tremendous. The supporters deserve far more than what was offered to them last season and I'm confident that next season, we can deliver entertaining, successful football."

"Ryan and I have spoken numerous times and he is an individual with a clear goal for the football club. He is aiming to steer the club back into League One, but is under no illusions of how challenging it will be. I will, as chairman, be offering all I can in order to support him and believe that this project will very much be successful."

Dean Austin, who became interim manager following the departure of Hasselbaink, has left the club - citing "personal reasons." He also thanked the supporters for their support during his time as manager.

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